Bengaluru, 25 August (H.S.): Rajajinagar MLA S. Suresh Kumar has urged the city police to take firm action against people repeatedly bursting firecrackers late at night in residential neighbourhoods of his constituency, saying the practice is disturbing residents and affecting their peace.

In a letter addressed to the Deputy Commissioner of Police, West Division, Kumar said firecrackers were being set off regularly in areas falling under the jurisdiction of two police stations in Rajajinagar. The disturbance was particularly severe after 9 p.m., when families, senior citizens, children and patients generally retire for the night.

The MLA acknowledged that bursting firecrackers during festivals and special occasions, including New Year, Eid and religious or national celebrations, was often accepted as part of the festivities. However, he said the frequent use of crackers on ordinary days, especially during late-night hours, could not be justified.

According to Kumar, the repeated explosions have become a source of considerable inconvenience to people living in the affected localities. Apart from creating noise, firecrackers can cause distress to elderly people, infants, patients and animals. They may also worsen respiratory problems and pose a potential fire hazard in densely populated residential areas.

Kumar said the matter had already been brought to the attention of the police on several occasions. He noted that he had personally conveyed his displeasure to police authorities through WhatsApp three times. Despite these complaints, the late-night bursting of firecrackers had continued.

The MLA asked senior police officers to issue clear instructions to the station house officers concerned and intensify monitoring in areas where such incidents are frequently reported. He also sought action against those repeatedly violating restrictions governing the use of firecrackers.

Kumar said celebrations should not come at the expense of public peace and urged people to adopt quieter and safer alternatives, particularly in residential neighbourhoods.

---------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman